40
Top40BookClubReadsNON-FICTION
Wasted: A Story of
Alcohol, Grief and a
Death in Brisbane
Elspeth Muir
In 2009, Elspeth Muir’s younger brother
jumped from the Story Bridge while on a
night out celebrating the end of his university
exams. When Alexander’s body was pulled
from the water three days later, his blood-
alcohol content was almost .25. He had just
turned 21. Muir’s brother’s story is the basis for
her book, which looks at Australia’s drinking
culture. It also includes a personal story about
her relationship with alcohol, while sharing facts
and figures – making the book part memoir
and part journalism. It is a heartbreaking and
eye-opening read.
What should I read next?
The Last Act of Love: The Story of
My Brother and His Sister by Cathy
Rentzenbrink
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